OK, so it’s my local. A sample of the pastries, sweet slices and seasonal treats like the chilli smashed avocados and you’ll see why. The chef is a maestro of cake-making. So family friendly its even got its own childcare centre next door.

Their buttermilk scone recipe is a local standard. Superb all round menu and the recent addition of the Fedeli ensures you’ll be well catered from breakfast through to dinner or a fully catered picnic lunch.

Lake Matheson Cafe, Fox GlacierThe ideal time to visit is for one of their superb breakfasts and if the planets align and the lake is still, witness the reflections of the Southern Alps with your coffee.

Maniototo Cafe, RanfurlyAn ideal refreshment stop after a cruise through the wide open spaces of the Big Sky country of the Maniototo. Lamingtons, magnificent scones and cream, fine china and picnic hamper options.

Olivers Restaurant, ClydeAs well as excellent baking the Merchant of Clyde cafe and deli has secluded garden seating.The restoration of this original stone merchant building built in 1869 to the current accommodation and gourmet restaurant has been a much-appreciated labour of love.

Orepuki Beach CafeA haven on the wild southern coastline. Another Southland gem. Literally. Gemstone Beach is just down the road. Proud to produce much of their own food and source it locally. Classically decadent baking with a modern take on their dishes.

Stella Cafe and Cheesery, HokitikaGood coffee and an extensive menu sourced from local produce. Only a minutes walk to the sea, pastries and other baking is complemented by its in-house cheesery.

84 Revell St, Hokitika 7810, New Zealand

+64 3-755 5432

Tarras Country CafeA Central Otago classic cafe with genuine country cuisine. Set up by local farming folk, the scones here are definitely the real deal. Preserves and other treats are stocked and next door is its own local design boutique for merino clothing and other products.

2792 Tarras-Cromwell Rd, Tarras 9383, New Zealand

+64 3-445 2821

103 The Store, RoxburghWith scones served in the classic tradition with cream or jam and the pastry shelves creaking under the weight of their kitchen’s other offerings, 103 The Store are a sure bet on the trip between Dunedin and the Southern Lakes. Just round the corner is that pastry and meat legend of the south since 1959, Jimmy’s Pies. The lamb shank one gets an honourable mention.

103 Scotland St, Roxburgh 9500, New Zealand

+64 3-446 8158

The Crib, Riverton

Formerly Mrs Clarks, The Crib is a tearoom not to be missed. Locally grown produce and seafood such as their blue cod fishcakes supplied by the Riverton fishing fleet, inspired baking and excellent coffee. Recently moved just down and across the street so may not be updated on google maps.

The Wild Walnut Cafe, LawrenceThis modest cafe area off Lawrence’s main street belies a pocket powerhouse of a kitchen. Along with traditional morning and afternoon teas, the Wild Walnut produces its own original brand of natural preserves and spices. From Manuka smoked BBQ sauce to orange cointreau marmalade, your picnic hamper will be overflowing with accessories. Vegetarian, gluten and dairy-free options with full nutritional information available.